Santa Cruz, Ca, United States Of America

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Country

United States Of America

Relocation

About Santa Cruz, Ca, United States Of America

Costs exclude rent

Single / month

$1,187

Family of 4 / mo

$3,068

Avg salary (after tax)

$5,994

Santa Cruz, California, is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe. Located along the Pacific Ocean, it offers great surfing spots, like the famous Steamer Lane, where surfers catch amazing waves. The city is also home to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a fun amusement park with rides, games, and delicious cotton candy. Nature lovers can explore the nearby redwood forests in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, where towering trees create a peaceful atmosphere. With its vibrant arts scene, fresh seafood restaurants, and friendly community, Santa Cruz is a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you want to soak up the sun on the beach or hike through the woods, Santa Cruz has something for everyone!

Data aggregated from public cost-of-living sources. See About for methodology.· Wikipedia · Santa Cruz, California· Updated May 22, 2026

Cost breakdown by category

Cost breakdown

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Fashion

Midrange Nike Running ShoesUSD $121.5
Summer Dress from Chain Stores (e.g., Zara, H&M)USD $46.41
Classic Jeans (e.g., Levi's 501)USD $81.16
Men's Dress ShoesUSD $159.75

Financial

Mortgage Interest Rate (20-Year Fixed)USD $5
Average Monthly Salary After TaxUSD $5,994

Food - Beverages

CappuccinoUSD $6.41
Local Draft Beer (Pint)USD $8.1
Imported Beer (Small Bottle)USD $10.13
Soft Drinks (350 ml Bottle)USD $3.04
Bottled Water (350 ml)USD $2.43

Food - Dining

Casual Dining ExperienceUSD $20.93
Upscale Dinner for TwoUSD $81
Fast Food ComboUSD $10.8

Food - Grocery

Chicken Fillets (1 kg)USD $25.42
Beef Round (1 kg)USD $26.61
Apples (1 kg)USD $7.43
Bananas (1 kg)USD $4.9
Oranges (1 kg)USD $11.88
Tomatoes (1 kg)USD $3.86
Potatoes (1 kg)USD $9.47
Onions (1 kg)USD $4.69
Lettuce (1 Head)USD $3.19
Bottled Water (1.5L)USD $3.54
Midrange Bottle of WineUSD $18.23
Marlboro (20-Pack)USD $16.2
White Rice (1 kg)USD $9.89
Dozen EggsUSD $7.78
Local Cheese (1 kg)USD $25.75
Fresh White Bread (1 kg)USD $14.43
Milk (1 litre)USD $2.06

Housing

Average Rent of 3-Bedroom Apartment in City CenterUSD $5,830
Average Rent of 3-Bedroom Apartment Outside City CenterUSD $5,619
Average Cost per Square Foot for Apartments in City CenterUSD $1,276
Average Cost per Square Foot for Apartments Outside City CenterUSD $1,095
Average Rent of 1-Bedroom Apartment in City CenterUSD $3,223
Average Rent of 1-Bedroom Apartment Outside City CenterUSD $3,015

Leisure

Monthly Fee for Fitness Club Membership (1 Adult)USD $80.33
Monthly Fee for Private Kindergarten (1 Child)USD $3,008
Tennis Court Rental (1 Hour, Weekend)USD $27
Cinema Ticket (International Release)USD $16.2
Yearly Cost for International Primary School (1 Child)USD $22,050

Transportation

1 Hour Taxi WaitUSD $12.5
Average Price of a New Sedan CarUSD $34,020
One-Way Local Transport FareUSD $2.7
Average Rate to Start a Taxi RideUSD $6.08
Average Monthly Cost of Public Transport PassUSD $70.88
Average Taxi Fare for 1 kmUSD $3.38
Average Price of a New Compact Hatchback CarUSD $34,425

Utilities (Monthly)

Internet Service (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited)USD $99.56
Average Monthly Cost for Essential Utilities in a 915 sq. ft. ApartmentUSD $323.15